Michael Vaughan extends support to Rashid Khan as he threatens to pull out of Big Bash League

Cricket Australia pulled out of the three-match ODI series against Afghanistan on Thursday following further restrictions on women's and girls' rights imposed by the Taliban. The series was scheduled to take place in the United Arab Emirates in March 2023. Reacting to the decision by CA, Afghanistan star wrist spinner has threatened to not participate in Australia’s premier T20 competition known as ‘Big Bash League’. Former England Michael Vaughan has also extended support to Rashid Khan on Twitter.

Vaughan took to Twitter and retweeted Rashid’s Tweet where he requested Cricket Australia to keep politics out of the game. Vaughan wrote, ‘I am totally with you on this Rashid..’.

I am totally with you on this Rashid .. 👍 https://t.co/4rwvHVOP0q

— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) January 12, 2023

Earlier Rashid released a statement from his Twitter handle and wrote "Cricket! The only hope for the country. Keep politics out of it. @CricketAus @BBL @ACBofficials," he tweeted along with a photo which had his statement.

"I am really disappointed to hear that Australia have pulled out of the series to play us in March. I take great pride in representing my country and we have made great progress on the world stage. This decision from CA sets us back in that journey. If playing vs Afghanistan is so uncomfortable for Australia then I wouldn't want to make anyone uncomfortable with my presence in the BBL. Therefore, I will be strongly considering my future in that competition."

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) in Kabul described Australia's decision as "pathetic". "The decision to withdraw... is unfair and unexpected and will have a negative impact," the ACB said in a statement.

The ACB said it would contact the Apex Cricket Body and was considering withdrawing its players from Australia's domestic Big Bash League in retaliation. Cricket Australia (CA) said their decision was taken after talks with concerned parties that included the Australian government.

We are committed to supporting growing the game for women: Cricket Australia

"This decision follows the recent announcement by the Taliban of further restrictions on women's and girls' education and employment opportunities and their ability to access parks and gyms," Cricket Australia said in a statement.

"CA is committed to supporting growing the game for women and men around the world, including in Afghanistan. (We) will continue to engage with the Afghanistan Cricket Board in anticipation of improved conditions for women and girls in the country," it further said.